Axial Diverter Mixing Valve With Integrated Low-Force Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing diverter/mixing valves, particularly those with a swinging-vane configuration, are inherently large, require substantial force to operate, and necessitate separate actuators, making them unsuitable for space-challenged vehicles like aircraft.
Innovation Solution
A concentric and compact axial diverter/mixing valve design with a pressure-balanced mechanism that integrates an actuation device within the valve assembly, allowing for easy operation with minimal force and enabling integration into space-constrained environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a swinging-vane configuration is used, then the valve can divert airflow between two outlets, but the valve becomes significantly large in size
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested structure where the barrel assembly containing the diverter vane is positioned within the valve body housing. The outlet ports are arranged concentrically around the barrel assembly, allowing the diverter to control flow to multiple outlets in a compact, space-efficient configuration. This nesting approach enables the valve to achieve its airflow diversion function while maintaining a significantly reduced overall size compared to conventional swinging-vane designs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a swinging-vane configuration is used, then the valve can divert airflow, but substantial force is required to operate the diverting vane
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a spring-loaded mechanism that acts as a counterweight to balance the diverter vane. The spring is positioned to apply a force that counteracts the aerodynamic forces acting on the vane during operation, significantly reducing the force required by the actuator to move the diverter between positions. This counterbalancing approach enables easy operation of the valve while maintaining full airflow diversion capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a swinging-vane configuration is used, then the valve can divert airflow, but a separate actuator is required making the assembled size larger
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the actuator mechanism directly into the valve body, merging what would traditionally be separate components. The actuator is positioned within the valve housing and directly couples to the diverter vane through the barrel assembly, eliminating the need for external actuators or complex linkage mechanisms. This integration reduces the total number of parts, simplifies the overall structure, and maintains the airflow diversion function in a compact package.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The axial diverter/mixing valve achieves a compact, lightweight design suitable for aircraft and other vehicles, providing efficient airflow management with reduced operational force requirements and scalable size adaptation.
Implementation Method 1
The inner support includes a first end that forms a channel around an inner perimeter of the first end and is connected to the first inlet port
Implementation Method 2
A barrel assembly is rotatably disposed inside the main housing and includes an inner sleeve and an outer sleeve
Data Source
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AI summary
A diverter/mixing valve is provided that includes a main outer housing and a barrel assembly disposed inside the main outer housing. When actuated, an actuator rotates the barrel assembly between an open end inlet position where a first fluid stream flows into a first inlet port and a second fluid stream is blocked from flowing into a second inlet port, and an open side inlet position where the second fluid stream flows into the second inlet port and the first fluid stream is blocked from flowing into the first inlet port.